But many more are refugee claimants who enter Canada, and declare themselves
as asylum seekers. As in most countries, a refugee is defined as someone
who has a well-founded fear of persecution or if returned home faces torture.

At the moment, claimants make their case to a board in order to stay in the
country. But this process can take years.

In the meantime these people can apply for welfare or seek work but are not
considered permanent residents.